A termite infestation can cause extensive and costly damage to your home. Here are signs of termites you should look out for to prevent them from wreaking havoc on your property. If you suspect an infestation, call a professional to eliminate the insects and recommend ways to prevent them in your home.

White ‘Ants’ are Signs of Termites

Termites and ants closely resemble each other. As a result, they’re often mistakenly identified by homeowners. If you encounter white insects in your home, they’re likely termites because there’s no such thing as white ants. Contact a pest control expert immediately to assess the situation.

Peeling Paint

Cracked and bubbling paint is a common sign of water damage. However, if you don’t find any leaks, it could be a termite infestation. When termites tunnel through wood, they introduce moisture and damage the materials. The humidity and weakened building materials can gradually cause the paint to peel, crack, and bubble.

Damaged Wood

Damaged wood is one of the most apparent signs of a termite infestation. Termites chew on wood, so you can tell if they’re present by tiny holes in walls. You can also detect wood damage by tapping or knocking on the material. If the tapping produces a hollow sound, you likely have a termite problem.

Signs of Termites: Frass

Termite droppings, also known as frass, resemble sawdust or coffee grounds. However, there are some distinct differences between frass and sawdust on closer inspection. Frass is darker in color, and it has a seed-like shape. Sawdust is lighter with a finer texture.

You typically find frass near the entrances to termite nests. So, if you’re searching for signs of termites in your home, look for a dark powdery substance that looks like dark sawdust or coffee grounds.

Swarming Insects

Another noticeable sign of a termite infestation is the presence of flying termites, also known as swarmers. Swarmers leave their nests to find mates and establish colonies elsewhere. You might see a swarm of insects on your property or notice discarded wings near window sills and other entry points. This is a sign of termites in your home.

Mud Tubes are Signs of Termites

When checking for termites, look for brown tunnels on the side of the building or trees around your property. These are called mud tubes and are a sure sign of an infestation. Termites use these tubes as they move around, looking for food. You might spot them along your home’s exterior and interior walls, wooden beams, and around the perimeter, usually near the foundation.

Clicking Sounds are Signs of Termites

Termites aren’t noisy, but if your home is very quiet, you might hear clicking sounds as they munch away at the wood. If you suspect termites in your home, place your ear close to the wall and listen for clicking or rattling sounds.

Termites can cause significant damage in a short amount of time. Schedule a termite inspection to rule out their presence and avoid costly damages.

HomeSource Inspections provides inspection services to customers in Northern Indiana and Southwest Michigan. Contact us to request an appointment.